A new zero-emission bus serving Romford and Rainham has helped London reach a major green transport milestone, as reported by our sister title London Now.
Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan announced that the capital’s 3,000th zero-emission bus has entered service, with the fully electric double-decker operating on route 165 between the two east London areas.
The achievement marks a significant step in London’s efforts to cut emissions and improve air quality, with the number of electric buses rising from just 30 in 2016, London Now reports, where further details of the milestone can be read.
In a statement, The Prince Albert team said: "After a great deal of thought, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to give notice on The Prince Albert.
"In six months’ time, our journey here will come to an end.
"This pub has been our home for almost seven years.
"We’ve built friendships, celebrated milestones, raised money for good causes, laughed, sang karaoke, hosted events, and created memories that we will cherish forever.
"Making this decision has been heartbreaking, but unfortunately it is one we can no longer avoid.
"Many people ask why independent pubs are disappearing, and the truth is that the costs of running a business like ours have become unsustainable.
"For us, the beginning of the struggle came during the energy crisis.
"As prices rocketed following the war in Ukraine, we were advised into an energy contract that, at the time, seemed like the lesser of two evils.
"The result was electricity bills reaching around £4,500 per month – costs that no small independent business can easily absorb.
"Although we later reached an arrangement with our supplier, we are still dealing with the impact of those decisions years later.
"Since then, costs have continued to rise across the board."
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The owners also pointed to increases in rent, supplier charges, subscription fees, and additional business outgoings as key factors that forced the closure.
They said: "Rent and associated property costs now exceeded double what we were paying at the start.
"Supplier prices have increased significantly and have never returned to previous levels.
"Sky Sports and TNT Sports subscriptions continue to climb, while recent increases to business rates, National Insurance contributions and other operating costs have placed even more pressure on businesses like ours.
"At the same time, households everywhere are feeling the squeeze, meaning fewer people can afford regular visits to their local pub.
"We completely understand that, but it has created a perfect storm that has made continuing here financially impossible.
"This is not a decision we wanted to make."
The team expressed deep gratitude to their loyal customers, past and present staff, entertainers, and all who supported the pub over the years.
They said: "To every customer who has walked through our doors, every member of staff past and present, every musician, entertainer, quiz team, sports supporter, karaoke singer and friend we’ve made along the way – thank you.
"You have made The Prince Albert what it is, and we will never forget it.
"We still have up to six months left, and we’re determined to make them count.
"There will be plenty of great nights, plenty of laughs, and when the time comes, we will announce our final day and throw one hell of a farewell party.
"If there is one thing we’d ask, it’s this: support your local pubs, cafés, restaurants and small businesses.
"They need your support now more than ever.
"If you have a favourite local business, don’t assume it will always be there.
"Use it, support it, and make it part of your week.
"From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for six unforgettable years.
"Zoë, Phil & Alex."
News of the closure was met with an outpouring of sadness and support from customers and the wider community.
Helen O'Brien said: "Such sad news guys.
"You both worked your guts out in that place, wishing you all the very best for the future, you will be missed."
Jennifer Winzar wrote a heart-felt tribute.
She said: "I’m immensely proud of you both, and at the same time, my heart is absolutely breaking for you.
"I know what The Albert meant to you.
"It wasn’t just a pub – it was your home, your happy place, your safe space, and a huge part of who you are.
"So many memories were made there, and I know how much love, time, and dedication you poured into it.
"I’ve watched you work tirelessly every single day.
"Even when you were supposed to be relaxing on holiday, you had your laptop with you.
"You travelled for research, spent countless hours planning and worrying, and no matter what was going on in your own lives, you were always there at the end of the phone whenever anyone needed you.
"From the moment you took over, you gave it everything.
"To take on a pub and then be thrown straight into lockdown was something nobody could have prepared for, but somehow you kept going.
"Through all the stress, uncertainty, setbacks, and sacrifices, you never gave up.
"I wish you could see yourselves the way everyone else sees you – strong, hardworking, caring, and incredibly brave.
"What you’ve achieved is remarkable, and no matter what happens next, nobody can ever take that away from you.
"I know this chapter ending is painful, and I know there will be a huge sense of loss.
"But I hope you never forget how much you accomplished, how many people you brought together, and how many lives you touched along the way.
"I love you both, and I couldn’t be prouder of you.
"The Albert may have been your home, your happy place, and your safe space, but the love, memories, and friendships you created there will always remain."
Others echoed the sense of loss for the wider community.
Patricia Harrison said: "Such a sad read.
"You will definitely be missed by so many.
"You made everyone so welcome into a friendly pub and enjoyed your food.
"You certainly tried your best, pubs like yours are so important for the community but unfortunately you just don’t get the help with all the rising costs.
"Wishing you all well in the future whatever you all do."
One supporter urged everyone to make the most of their final months.
They said: "Here’s hoping the next six months are full of great memories and that you get the send-off you deserve."
Others already lamented the loss of a beloved Thursday routine.
Nicky Cook said: "Our Thursday night won’t ever be the same.
"Good luck you."
There were also words of frustration for the lack of government action on rising business costs.
Tony Saunders said: "Sadly you are one of many small businesses who just can’t make the figures add up.
"Shame on our country’s politicians who have done nothing to help.
"My very best wishes for the next six months and whatever the future holds."
The Prince Albert plans to keep trading for the next six months and has promised to host a "farewell party" before closing its doors for good.
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